Matthew 21:28

But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.

Matthew 21:28 (KJV)

Context

Jesus spoke this parable during His final week before the crucifixion, in direct response to the chief priests and elders who questioned His authority. The opening question, “But what think ye?” was a common rhetorical device Jesus used to engage His listeners and provoke self-reflection. The father in the parable represents God, and the vineyard is a familiar biblical symbol for Israel or the place of God’s service. The father’s command, “Son, go work to day in my vineyard,” is a direct, personal call to obedience, with the word “to day” stressing the urgency of responding now.

Meaning

The first son initially refused, saying, “I will not,” but afterward repented and went to work. His change of heart shows that genuine repentance leads to obedience, even after an initial refusal. The second son answered, “I go, sir,” but did not go. His polite words masked a lack of real commitment, illustrating the danger of hypocrisy—professing obedience without practicing it. When Jesus asked which son did the father’s will, the listeners correctly answered, “the first.” The parable’s central contrast is between verbal profession and actual obedience, with the emphasis on doing the father’s will.

Biblical connections

Jesus concluded the parable by saying, “Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.” The tax collectors and prostitutes had initially rejected God’s ways but later repented, while the religious leaders claimed righteousness but lacked true repentance. This connection directly applies the parable to Jesus’ audience, showing that repentant sinners enter the kingdom ahead of those who only appear obedient.

Application

This parable challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we like the first son, initially resistant but willing to change and obey God’s commands? Or are we like the second son, making empty promises of obedience without following through? True repentance and obedience are what God desires from us, and the call to work in His vineyard is personal and urgent.

Reflection

The father’s address, “Son,” reminds us that God’s call is personal. He invites each of us into His service, not because we are perfect, but because He is merciful. The parable assures us that it is never too late to repent and obey, and it warns us that words alone cannot substitute for faithful action.